STELLA RYKSZYNSKI

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STELLA RYKSZYNSKI September 15, 1924 - May 8, 2016 Sadly and peacefully, on Mother's Day, Baba was taken from us. Of all her many accomplishments and triumphs through her 91 years, first and foremost, Baba was a loving and supportive mother. Stella was born in Poland to Peter and Katherine Chwaluk. In 1937, she came to Canada with her mother and sister to reunite with her father in Vista, Manitoba. She embraced her new life wholeheartedly and quickly learned the language. In 1947, she married her husband, Wallace, in Winnipeg. Mom wore many hats throughout her journey. Along with being a wife, mother and homemaker, she worked as a secretary, a garment worker, in the hospitality industry and as an award winning hairstylist. For a time, she had her own styling salon. Mom was devoted to her four children, Peter Rykszynski (Carol) of British Columbia, Patricia Reid (Tom) of British Columbia, Donna Lenchuk (Mark) of Winnipeg, and Cathy Rykszynski-Arnold (Todd) of British Columbia. She was most proud of her grandchildren, Michael and Calandra Lenchuk, Dex, Abigail, Madeline, Emily Arnold, and Bethany Rykszynski (Corey) and her children, Alicia and Aubree. Stella was predeceased by her husband of 45 years; her two sisters, Anne Furgal and Margaret Funk, and many other family members and lifelong friends. She will be missed by her sister and brother-in-law, Nadia and Marvin Preyma, and her friend, Nick Tkatchuk. Despite an arduous battle with diabetes which resulted in the loss of one of her legs and eyes, she continued to be an endless source of love, support and inspiration to her entire family. She recovered full mobility after the loss of her leg at age 85 and continued to live independently. She was creative, witty and in awe of the world around her until the end. She loved people, travel and nature. Baba was truly a remarkable woman and will be sorely missed by many. Her family wish to thank all of her many friends and health care workers, especially Dr. Koulack of Health Sciences Centre. Stella's celebration of life will take place on Friday, May 13, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. Interment to follow at Holy Family Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Canadian Diabetes Association. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 11, 2016